Posted 12 years ago
blingiton1…
(24 items)
I have this cuff bracelet and don't remember where I got it. Possibly in a box of jewellery given to me or bought at a garage sale? The metal looks to be brass and the filagree could be silver although when tested it didn't pass the silver test. there is patena on the underside like milky powder or copper? I haven't cleaned it but tempted! Measure 8 inches closed with an early hinge hence the shape. I love it, but would love your ideas. Could it be Victorian Etruscan? Thanks for all your interest..and comments..blingiton1948
Its not real filigree actually, that was all stamped out
Hi Stillwater: I see that filligree is really little beads webbed into a design. What would you call this and how would you describe it then? Do you have any idea of date or origin? Thank you. blingiton1948
Well I guess filigree has recently been used to describe any fine metalwork, but it used to mean (and this is why it was desirable and valuable) was fine 800 silver strip that was hand-laid. Here's an example:
http://www.shopcurious.com/Products/ShopCurious/Vintage-filigree-silver-card-holder-cigarette-case.aspx
All of those little strips of silver were INDIVIDUALLY hand curled and soldered, all those ingot beads were dripped on one by one, its extremely time-consuming. Thats why, nowadays, you only see REAL filigree coming from countries with low labor costs, mainly India. Its just extremely time-consuming. Your bracelet was actually all stamped out in one piece, made to imitate the old hand-work. Its silver-plated brass too, thats why it didn't pass the silver test.
Thank you so much Stillwater. Yes I can this being a tedious and time-consuming job..thanks for the link. So my silver-plated brass bracelet is not really a prized item?
I like the whole concept and style..I think it must be old though. NO? I would love to sit it a room together and pick your brain..thanks again...Blingiton1948
I believe this could have a Balkanic origin or, if that rose is what it looks could be a "botón charro" some kind of art that people of Salamanca (Spain) brought to Mexico and I believe is famous there too
Botón Charro -> https://images.app.goo.gl/ftwBw6zqyZVadV5h7
Balkan jewelry -> https://images.app.goo.gl/Tau6SuFL4QsQmVnb7
Balkan jewelry ->https://images.app.goo.gl/3naZoZ4vnmSUEugi9
Balkan jewelry ->https://images.app.goo.gl/R1yeJX9rZpcoxK2Z9